Brent Grimes redeems himself against the Jets
Atlanta Falcons' Brent Grimes, left, tries to escape from New York Jets' Braylon Edwards, right, after intercepting a pass during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 20, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Falcons beat the Jets 10-7. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
NEW YORK – Cornerback Brent Grimes snuggled Mark Sanchez’ third interception as he went down to the turf.
It was his second of the game and he now leads the team with four.
“I just read the receiver and made a break on the ball,” said Grimes after the 10-7 victory over the New York Jets.
Grimes was playing right cornerback for Chris Houston. He’s been in out of the lineup this season.
Thomas DeCoud congratulates Brent Grimes. (Kathy Willens/AP)
He opened the season playing outside in the nickel package after Brian Williams was acquired. When Williams went down, Grimes started there fulltime before the team started shuffling him, Tye Hill and eventually rookie Christopher Owens.
Grimes got a chance to get back on the field after Houston pulled his hamstring.
He’s had a tough year, but appears to be finishing it strong.
“Two real big interceptions, Brent’s play all through the season has been fairly steady,” said Falcons head coach Mike Smith. “It was nice to see him get the opportunity to make some game-changing plays. I thought that both of those plays that he made were game-changing.”
It was Owens who got beat by Cleveland Browns castoff Braylon Edwards on the 65-yard touchdown.
Grimes didn’t want to have a let down just because the Falcons were eliminated from the playoffs.
“That always hurts, but you have to go out and compete,” Grimes said. “We went out and played the game and
PRE-GAME: The Sideline Communications Center behind the Jets bench.
competed even though we heard some news that nobody wanted to hear.”
CHIN STRAPS WERE NECESSARY: The Falcons didn’t like Jets coach Rex Ryan telling them they’d better button up their chin straps because it was going to be a physical game.
“I heard about it last night,” right tackle Tyson Clabo said. “I hadn’t heard about it before that, but that’s just talk and that’s not what we are about.
“We are not about running our mouths and doing all of that. We just show up and play.”
Clabo didn’t like the comment, but conceded that Ryan was correct.
“I’ll give their defense credit, it was a physical game,” Clabo said. “There was a lot of hitting going on. A lot of jawing. They came ready to play defensively. He was right. We needed to bring our chin strap and I think we brought them. We didn’t back down.”
GAME TIME DECISION, FOR REAL: More than two hours before kickoff, Matt Ryan was dropping back and rolling out under the watchful eyes of Smith, general manager Thomas Dimitroff and offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey.
After that workout, the Falcons made the decision to play Ryan over Chris Redman despite the fact that Redman had received most of the work during practice last week.
PRE-GAME: NFL Logo on the field at Giants Stadium.
“The decision to play Matt was a decision that we made right prior to the football game,” Smith said. “Matt had got some limited work during the week. We said we are going to play the guys that give us the best opportunity to win the football game. We decided to go with Matt and Michael Turner.”
QUOTE OF THE DAY: “We kept scratching around and finally made some plays,” Smith said of the Falcons game winning touchdown drive.
PICKING UP THE BLITZ: Ryan got his cage rattled a few times by the blitz-happy Jets, but was not sacked.
“I feel very good about that,” Smith said. “We were short handed. Some guys were banged up and didn’t practice. That was a team that prides itself on putting pressure on the quarterback. It was a big challenge for our offensive line, but I thought they kept our quarterback very clean. . . .Schematically, we had a very good scheme in place to keep our quarterback clean.”
DAVIS ON THE BLOCKED FIELD GOAL: Chauncey Davis‘ blocked field goal was a key play in the game to set up the winning drive.
“We are taught to get off the ball, take three steps and get your hands up,” Davis said. “We got that good push and I got my hands up. It was just in the way of the line of the ball.”
A fan throws a snowball onto the field during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and the New York Jets on Sunday, Dec. 20, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Falcons beat the Jets 10-7. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
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114 comments Add your comment
Wildebeast
December 20th, 2009
11:01 pm
First
Wildebeast
December 20th, 2009
11:02 pm
Couldn’t be prouder of the Falcons players and organization. Great win under tough conditions!
sane jane
December 20th, 2009
11:12 pm
We’ve seen enough ugly losses this season and this lifetime. It’s nice to win ugly too.
Trainwreck
December 20th, 2009
11:27 pm
Brent Grimes played very well today. So did Owens except for the TD… btw has anyone else noticed that alot of DBs are getting away with the same move that Grimes was called for interference for when he got that int against the Saints? That whole cutting the receiver off to go for the ball? Revis did it to Roddy White on the play where Roddy got the offensive interference called. I’ve just been really noticing it more often since last week.
poppa falcon
December 20th, 2009
11:34 pm
Matt Ryan & Mike Turner hurt, dinged up on offensive line, Roddy White banged up, Finneran on IR, playing the Jets at their house in their elements AND their number one defense…….YET we get a hard ea rned victory. I’m extremely proud of the Falcons.
FalconUGAFan
December 20th, 2009
11:35 pm
Welldone. Way to hang in for the win.
Retired on the lake
December 20th, 2009
11:44 pm
1 down 2 to go! Good game great heart! Go Falcons
Fanatic overboard
December 20th, 2009
11:48 pm
Celebrating and congratulating for anything less than making the post-season is just pathetic.
Atlanta Peach
December 20th, 2009
11:50 pm
Choke, “Howd you Doin” ?!!!
Moxie
December 21st, 2009
12:30 am
I’m very happy for this win. I kinda sorta expected a win, but sometimes you never know. I knew the Jets had the best defense in the NFL but I never expected them to be that difficult. But under all the conditions, the Falcons pulled out the win and showed heart that I didnt know they had. I’m excited about Matt Ryan. He had a horrendus game, but he showed up when it really mattered. And this isn’t really the first time he has done that. I know this season was pretty crappy for Matt but I think the experience of this season can really help him in his development and I think people we will have a really great QB! I sure hope so. Only 2 more wins to Back to back winning seasons!
E43
December 21st, 2009
12:39 am
the falcons cb coaches didnt do grimes a favor in training camp. i mean their job then was preparation, assesing the talent and developing the corners. they did everything to only one corner. im not saying that any coaches should be fired, im just saying that they need to find a system starting with a permanent depth chart and stick to int.
Singletary
December 21st, 2009
1:25 am
Serious MAN-UP in this game. Rex Ryan didn’t put pushovers on the field. Both teams were playing, whether for 9-7 or something more. Even Gonzo seems to have bought into how important it is for us to break the curse, even though he came here for something more like a trophy. Gotta like that.
Grimes has been disparaged by the fans. But if you look at the spectacular D plays of the season, his leaps are always almost half his height, and I haven’t seen him whiff tackling except one where he was being held by the jersey. In doing the math, it is hard to envision a 5′8″ covering a 6′4″ receiver, but his delayed blitzes around the corners and sheer athleticism make a case for keeping him on the team if nothing else for special teams. (Remember Tim Dwight who would throw his body into any melee/fracas/run-back? That’s who Grimes reminds me of most.
LJ
December 21st, 2009
1:35 am
To the hater who gets on this blog under the name “Matt ‘Choke’ Ryan,” I hope you can put that nonsense to rest. I am sure you were all set to pour that big glass of Hater-ade, but you were foiled LOL. Even with snowballs being thrown (I was at the game and had a clear view), Matty Ice delivered.
I’m sure you can pull up some stats or whatever, but I know one thing you can’t say!
GTisMIAMIbound
December 21st, 2009
1:40 am
Yes you have Trainwreck. It was a bad call and everybody and their mamas have said so. Only ones who haven’t, Saint’s fans. And they finally lose when we didn’t need them too. But like the song says, “it’s [the Falcons] own [dang] fault.”
Big Daddy
December 21st, 2009
3:48 am
From the time you are playing in your backyard with your boyhood friends, you dream of that moment when it is the last play with the game on the line and you are the quarterback. You drop back, make a quick read on the defense and throw a touchdown pass to win the game. Few get to actually do that whether it is Pop Warner, High School, College or especially the Pros. Congradulations to Matt Ryan and the Falcons for never giving up and now even if you did not throw the pass you were part of the team that made that play.
falcondawg
December 21st, 2009
5:43 am
STILL A CHANCE!!!
Fanatic overboard
December 21st, 2009
6:44 am
falcondawg…still a chance at what?? Saints, Vikings, Eagles, Cardinals, Packers and Cowboys. The only team with a “chance” at making the postseason for the NFC is the Giants. The Falcons have NO CHANCE.
Fanatic overboard
December 21st, 2009
6:47 am
Will they give out little trophies and certificates for participation on Jan 3rd to all the Falcon players? That’s what you get when you’re playing for moral victories! Just like the Little League teams! Its all about the character building victories! How lucky for the teams going to the playoffs that’s its about THAT.
Bud Wiser
December 21st, 2009
6:53 am
Great win, with the playoffs gone for this season and all.
I’m a bit surprised there are no whining “J-E-T-S Jets Jets Jets” here as yet. Did you see the snowball barrage during our winning drive? NYers were even an embarrassment to themselves, and that’s saying quite a lot.
It also appears the “J-E-T-S Jets Jets Jets” were deliberatelt targeting Turner’s ankle.
Typical of losers.
jdub
December 21st, 2009
7:31 am
To Fanatic:
We’re not celebrating the win you douchebag, we’re CONGRATULATING our team on a hard-fought game that they were able to pull out.
What team do you root for? Is Fanatic Overboard your new name since they banned the “JOKE” blogger?
Its just nice to beat the media darling NY Sanchez and the J-E-T-S. They get too much hype but the Falcons shared a little of their underserving limelight yesterday.
Go Birds – lets finish with a winning record so we dont have to hear about that stupid streak anymore.
FoxNoise.net
December 21st, 2009
7:42 am
Draft needs: Aside from the obvious help on defense (again) we must pick up a running back by the third round.
Icfraud
December 21st, 2009
7:44 am
Thanks, Coach Smith…Your smile after the game showed pure joy and pride…something we fans appreciate.
gt 97
December 21st, 2009
8:06 am
Is it possible the D is gelling just a few weeks too late? Of course the Jets offense is ho hum, but good effort against the Saints and Jets. The way our D was playing, I wondered why Coach Smith tried that long field goal late instead of punting or even going for it?
Sick Fan
December 21st, 2009
8:24 am
Does anyone besides me think it’s time for Jamaal Anderson and Jerious Norwood to find new homes after this season? JN gets hurt every time he carries the ball and that buster JA is wearing a robbery mask on Sundays.
MrHughes
December 21st, 2009
8:47 am
I’ve been very impressed with the development of Grimes this year. Add his interception last week to the totals and he would have 5 for the year. That’s very impressive for someone a lot of people wanted to send packing and was a nickle back at the beginning of the year. He makes very athletic plays and is getting better in coverage.
Anderson plays very well against the run. He was missed yesterday, but the rest of the D stepped up. You always want guys on your defense that are stout against the run and stay in their gaps instead of free lancing. That’s JA to a T.
The reason the Falcons won yesterday was the D. The Jets have the top rushing attack in the league and thought they would be able to run easily on us. I love the way the D is maturing right before our very eyes. It will bode very well for next year when we get a lot of our pieces back and draft a few more. Our young guys are growing up. TD picks are looking better by the minute. If we manage to get to 9 wins with the injuries, road record, and dissapointing losses we’ve had, then you have to label that as a good campaign.
McNasty
December 21st, 2009
9:04 am
Glad that we won. However the Jets are not a good team. Everytime we meet a competant quarterback our defensive game plan is not competitive. You can’t always blame personnel for a poor fundamental scheme. We must go in a different direction with the d coordinator & replace the D back coach since there has been no improvement back there for years.
Offensively we were lucky that the only one play that Gonzo was open the entire day was the last one. How many times will we have to watch the falcons run a play twice to see it fail miserably the second time. It looks like there is a very limited number of bread & butter plays that can be counted on for 5 yards on 1st. or second down.
On both sides of the ball it looks like the coaches dont recognize tendecies that opponents easily countermeasure.
However I love Smitty
Arthante Lafleur
December 21st, 2009
9:07 am
Great job, big win for this team. These past two weeks I’ve been able to hold my head high as a Falcons fan b/c the team is playing hard and it shows. That’s all I can ask of the players and I commend them for the strong effort (even if Matt did look a bit rusty…). Of course, Jay Feely and his long snapper helped us out more than anything, but it’s about time we benefited from Feely’s shenanigans for a change.
Great job by the defense!
GO FALCONS!!
The Grinch
December 21st, 2009
9:10 am
Nice, positive post MrHughes. And I will agree JA is disciplined against the run. But the #8 overall pick at DE isn’t there for that purpose. If he’d been taken in the fourth or fifth and was being paid accordingly to be a rotational guy, nobody would be on his case. But his salary vs. production is an albatross to the team.
The players are buying into Smith/Dimitroff, and that’s what’s important for the long term. We’ll be busy in FA this off-season, and over the next two or three we’ll clear up McKay’s mistakes and get the talent to go with the heart and fire. Take cheer, Falcons fans; time for sustained excellence isn’t far off.
littlebird
December 21st, 2009
9:21 am
I agree 100% with the poster about getting rid of the toothpick legs #32 . . . he can’t take the NFL hits . . . has probably played less than half the plays since he was signed. Now it’s not necessary to tackle him, just blow in his direction and he’ll fall!! The only value he has is IF there’s not anyone within 15 yards of him then he can run! Draft another RB with toughness along with defensive players. GRIMES is a PLAYER regardless of his size!
Real Talk
December 21st, 2009
9:26 am
i can honestly say the falcons are a good team and the d is gettin it together it would be nice to see grims in as a ss or a fs cause the dude got speed and heart, owens did good as a rookie and i like the way they played our lb’s been playin good all year i don’t care what nobody say just hope we can win out.
Rev Blake
December 21st, 2009
9:43 am
The run defense has been improving for several weeks now. Love the pic of DeCoud lifting Grimes in the air. Sorry, but he looks like a little kid being picked up by his daddy.
Shameful that the refs did nothing in terms of flags when the NY fans were throwing snowballs. Did anyone else notice the snowball that landed directly beside Ryan as the ball was snapped on the fourth down, touchdown pass?
I wish we were going to the playoffs, but I’m a Falcons fan and I’ll keep cheering for a 9-7 season.
dawg fan 4 life
December 21st, 2009
9:48 am
Does anyone besides me think it’s time for Jamaal Anderson and Jerious Norwood to find new homes after this season? JN gets hurt every time he carries the ball and that buster JA is wearing a robbery mask on Sundays. I love your comment Sick Fan, I hope that someone else agrees.
hoop235
December 21st, 2009
9:48 am
Great win yesterday!! This team is playing with alot of heart and that’s something we haven’t seen in years. TD, Smitty and the coaching staff are doing a great job of working with injuries and the younger players. I for one think BVG is doing a good job with this young defense. Let’s not forget this is the same coordinator that went 11-5 last year. Also, congrads to Brent Grimes, I just wish you were 4″ taller and we would have one the best corners in the league.
Ken Strickland
December 21st, 2009
9:55 am
Earlier in the season, after losing CB BWilliams, we had trouble stopping the run and the pass, which is why we’re still ranked so low. Isn’t it funny how the DEF seems to have benefitted from injuries? We lose DT PJerry and former starting DT TLewis has difficulty getting into form. These issues caused DE JAnderson to be moved inside and gave rookie DT VWalker and UFA TJohnson their chance and they seem to have solidified the interior of our DL.
Suddenly, we’re stuffing the run and getting pressure on the QB. Before the season started, we had questions about CB, SS, DT and OLB. Well, their definitely aren’t any further questions about the play of our SS, DT’s and OLB’s. With the recent play of CB’s BGrimes and COwens, and the return next yr of CB BWilliams, along with a 1st rd pick and FA money to sign a FA CB, we should be in good shape next yr defensively.
With the work ethic of QB MRyan, you can bet he’ll address all of the problems he had this yr. Last yrs success was due partly to DEF’s unfamiliarity with our players, OFF and what we were doing. The other part was our ability to avoid serious injuries throughout the season. All of that caught up to us this yr. With DT’s VWalker, TJohnson stepping up, with JAnderson becoming a factor inside, the return of PJerry from IR next yr and the emergence of DE CBierman, our DL will be deep and solid as a rock.
JNorwood’s injury issues and the fact he’s lost his KR duties will likely signal the end of his tenue with the Falcons. This is where someone like former UGA RB TBrown might have a chance to become a factor, assuming we don’t draft a RB. If we win out, we’ll likely end up drafting in the 13 to 18 range. Will that be high enough to get us the quality CB we need, or will we go FA instead.
THIS IS GOING TO BE ONE EXCITING OFF SEASON FOR THE FALCONS.
GINA
December 21st, 2009
9:57 am
Will there be a parade on Peachtree Street if the Falcons go 9-7?? Confetti?? A trophy? I guess you can get one from Office Depot.
Roll Tider
December 21st, 2009
10:19 am
“With their first pick in the NFl draft, the Atlanta Falcons select Joe Haden, CB from the University of Florida.” Hate the school but that man can flat out play.
truth
December 21st, 2009
10:50 am
Please explain to me why it is wrong to root for your team to end the season with a winning record. You who are complaining about that are newbie fans who only came around because of what happened last year. The fans who have supported this team for several years are excited because for the 1st time we may have a chance to witness back to back winning seasons.
So to you newbie fans…….STFU!!!!! We don’t need you on this board anyway.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
December 21st, 2009
10:53 am
MADE IT BACK!!! I guess some of you read about the trip to the game in Schultz’ blog:
Players have the day off (Victory Monday! Good for them. Bad for us.) Guess they earned it. Coach Smith is speaking at 3 p.m. Send along any questions you want me to ask.
Working on my list right now, too.
(I banned Choke. There were 3 of them. One was the notorious MV7 disguised under a new name. Let’s get back to talking FALCONS FOOTBALL. Vick isn’t on the roster so don’t be surprised when any Vick related or non Falcons football related comments get deleted.)
truth
December 21st, 2009
10:59 am
thank you D-Led.
LongSufferingFalconsFan
December 21st, 2009
11:05 am
With this defense this team would be nothing more than 1 and done in the playoffs. Finishing 9-7 ends the year on a high note, while at the same time breaking a 40+ year curse. I think that is something to be happy about heading into the off season. Realistic fans didn’t expect a Super Bowl this year. I’m confident TD will make the right moves in the off season, and next year we should have a better schedule. I think we are setting ourselves up for a hell of a year next year.
LongSufferingFalconsFan
December 21st, 2009
11:07 am
I just hope the team wants 9-7 as much as true fans do. These last 2 games can still end our chances. We need to go out and take care of business and end it positively.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
December 21st, 2009
11:32 am
TRUTH: You’re welcome.
My man Brian Cearns from the PR staff is working OT for us. He just brought back Thomas DeCoud for me. I know the secondary has had its ups and down, but DeCoud (2nd year), Grimes (2nd year on the field) and Owens (1st). What if these kids keep growing with Coleman and William Moore waiting in the wings. If they keep progressing . . . who knows maybe the Falcons end up with a nice secondary for a long time.
McNasty
December 21st, 2009
11:55 am
So no one sees the same problem that has been going on for years with the dbacks even before this regime? Time to make a change towards game planning & coaching that is competive against Tier 1 teams
Zippo
December 21st, 2009
12:17 pm
So, the fact that our backup QB among others had a chance to beat the then undefeated Saints isn’t good enough for you, McNasty? You ever tried looking at the positives in things?
midnite
December 21st, 2009
12:41 pm
Glad you are back DOL and thanks for that victory you brought back. What Grimes lacks in size he makes up in heart, the kid is a playmaker. Merry Christmas to you and your family. Go Falcons bust that “curse”.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
December 21st, 2009
12:44 pm
MIDNITE:Thanks for your kind words. Merry Christmas to you and your family. My favorite Grimes play was the interception in New Orleans when he jumped out of the Superdome to pluck Brees’ pass out of the sky.
Ivan
December 21st, 2009
12:44 pm
Truth,
There’s nothing wrong with wanting your team to win in 31 NFL cities. In one NFL city though, the fans cheer the other team and love watching their team lose. Welcome to Atlanta!
LJ
December 21st, 2009
12:56 pm
@Ken Strickland,
You make some very good points. I was at the game in the frigid cold and I cannot tell you how proud I am of this group of players. Yes they struggled, but the fact that Ryan and Turner came out to play, despite the fact that Dallas dashed the Falcons playoff hopes speaks volumes! If we can get to 9-7 and get this monkey off our backs, I see a bright future ahead.
Timmy
December 21st, 2009
1:06 pm
The most effective play Grimes made was the tackle on the kickoff. He was the last defender between the returner and the goal line. He saved 7 points and probably the game on that play.
Jeffery
December 21st, 2009
1:16 pm
BTW, What in the heck was with teh Jets fans throwing snowballs those last few plays. That’s a bunch of low life crap…. What would have happened if one would have it the reciever and or QB and caused that last play to fail. Woudl it have been a personal foul??
willdave
December 21st, 2009
1:28 pm
D, thanks for taking the steps necessary to make sure everyone stays on topic. That’s exactly what these blogs need.
By NFL standards, Brent Grimes is a small man, but he plays BIG. He is gradually becoming one of my favorite players on the team. The Falcons probably don’t win that game yesterday without his stellar performance.
9-7 means everything right now, no playoffs needed. Go Falcons!
Around the NFC South
December 21st, 2009
1:31 pm
[...] Grimes has taken a lot of criticism from fans this season. But the guy was a hero on Sunday with two interceptions. He now leads the team with four on the [...]
tjhook
December 21st, 2009
1:33 pm
Very proud of the Falcons after yesterday’s win, but I want to know why ‘Choke’ has been banned from the board. He gave dissenting opinions on Ryan but I hope something serious happen to justify banning him from the board.
tyger
December 21st, 2009
1:36 pm
Is there a #1 Corner?
The defense has been resilient, but the secondary lacks a true #1 corner. Grimes, Owens, Houston, Williams all hold their own, but the question is do the Falcoons need a #1 corner?
After watching Dallas’ Newman and NYJs’ Revis – those teams are at a distinct advantage – they cut the field in half, the QB holds the ball longer and there’s always the possibility of the big play INT or pick 6.
Although our DBs are tough, they are not feared – at all. I’m not saying cut them, that would be a mistake, but we do need at least one top-end corner, a Ferrari, so to speak. And you don’t find those in the 3rd rd. or off the street.
Moreover, our DBs are inexperienced. The only DB w/ 3yr+ experience are Coleman and Houston. If you don’t re-sign Houston he just blossoms somewhere else. While Grimes, Owens are second-tier – nickel -dime backs; with time, they could/will evolve. Hill, Jackson don’t have much upside.
However, a good secondary goes hand-in-hand with a strong DLine. I’m not happy with the sack total this season. Abraham had a severe drop-off, we need to figure out why? Do we continue to pay Jamal Anderson 1st rd. money for 5th rd. production? Is Chauncey a starter? Sidbury and Biermann look are solid reserves on both ends, but don’t we need a beast to bookend with Abraham?
Dallas’ Ware and Spencer were unstoppable, what if we had a combo like that? Our secondary and entire defense/team would look alot better.
Without-a-clue
December 21st, 2009
2:14 pm
Saying “Choke” gave a dissenting opinion is like saying Jack the Ripper manicured his victims.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
December 21st, 2009
2:27 pm
CHOKE WAS repeatedly off topic (FALCONS FOOTBALL) and in violation of any kind of internet decency standard.
timthebrave
December 21st, 2009
2:55 pm
I was excited about how the game turned out. That was a really great last drive. This team has a lot of positive things to be proud of but also a lot of areas that will need to be corrected by draft/free agency, etc. Really proud of the falcons. 9-7 is within reach. Go dirty birds
Big Ray
December 21st, 2009
3:08 pm
DOL,
Good job banning “Choke”. What a pisser….
I’ve always liked Brent Grimes, even if he is a bit smurfish. The guy has good athleticism and technique.
Chris Houston, however…that’s another story. I wouldn’t be at all sad to see him go the way of Brooking, Boley, and Milloy.
I still have very high hopes for Moore. Kid is tough, strong, and instinctive. He’s going to be mean against the run, and tricky against the pass. If he can just stay healthy.
Can’t wait for Lawrence Sidbury to have a good offseason and training camp. I’m about ready for him to take over for John “I’m past my prime” Abraham.
SWAT Native
December 21st, 2009
3:19 pm
DLed,
First, I’ve been meaning to give props to a fellow bow-tie wearer.
I agree with Smitty, Grimes has played pretty solid all year. He made a great play in this game, but he made a great play in the Saints game last week too that was called back. If refs would call some of the push offs that the big receivers get to make on him (I’ve seen some two hands on the numbers pushes) and not give him some of the cheap interference calls, he would be able to compete with them. He may be better suited as nickel back, but I don’t have a problem with him.
TG from CA
December 21st, 2009
3:21 pm
Great win yesterday!!! Tough weather conditions, on the road, against a team battling for a playoff spot. Just an awesome job to come up big when we had too!! Merry Christmas Falcons fans and peace to the city of Atlanta
stendec
December 21st, 2009
3:57 pm
Thank you for your honesty Mr Bradley. I make these comments as a fan since 1966 who is now a diehard Falcon hater except for Tony Gonzalez who I respect and admire tremendously. I will believe until I die that one season wonder bust Matt “My Toe Aches” Ryan purposely bailed on his team until a team of his liking (Jets) was on horizon. Fraud pulled a Maryann Hossa/Ilya Kovalchuk on fans. QB generates no confidence or excitement any more. Was rooting for Jets to ensure continuation of Falcon record futility. No less than these quitters or fans (of which I was, unfortunately, once one until Michael Sick embarrassment) deserve. Was not meant to be. Hate Falcons. Was proud for former Chief on his game winning catch. Cannot ever be mad at player who loves game, for game itself, as this guy does. Players like money hungry Roddy “Another Drop” White would be well served to follow his example. Michael Turner bailed on team with phantom injury. Do not blame him. Have no use for Coach Mike Petrino for allowing drug dealer and highway alcoholic to start. Wish Falcons nothing but disaster for years to come! Heading in right direction? If all directions lead to Hell! Peace. ++STENDEC++
stendec
December 21st, 2009
3:58 pm
Sorry for leaving start which had Mr Bradley. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! ++STENDEC++
Without-a-clue
December 21st, 2009
5:00 pm
Whether or not Mr. “++STENDEC++ is “on topic” is impossible to ascertain. Can anyone offer a translation?
Rocky Mountian Falcon
December 21st, 2009
5:01 pm
Thank you Ledbetter for the “Death of Choke” He needed to go months ago!!
NOW to the Falcons!, All last week every announcer said the Jets would beat the Falcons. They almost did, but our boys hung around and took one away. I was disappointed at the Giants Stadium Security not doing enough to stop the snowballs from being thrown at the Falcons during the Fourth and Goal at the end of the game. A snow ball came pretty darn close to hitting Snelling just as the ball was hiked. No football player should have to worry about the opposing teams fans’ except for crowd noise. This was unacceptable and the NFL needs to look into it.
I know the Falcons are out of the playoffs but they can still make Falcon history with two more wins! BACK TO BACK winning season! We still have something to play for and I hope our guys see that! Come on guys lets focus on Buffalo and shut down T.O.
Win,lose, or tie bravos til i die
December 21st, 2009
5:13 pm
stendec what happens when ryan does blossom into a great quarterback and this team makes the playoffs next year and we get a great defense and are considered one of the best teams in the nfl, how will you view ryan then. cus as far as im concerned ryan has the best work ethic of any falcons quarterback ever. so what
Baba O'Riley
December 21st, 2009
5:16 pm
Can anyone confirm what would’ve happened if that snowball would,ve hit Ryan in that last series? Wouls a penalty have been assessed? I can’t imagine dropping back on that 4th down and having a snowball hit the Ryan in the face.
Savannah Fan
December 21st, 2009
5:19 pm
The Falcons will steadily improve-next year will be the real beginning as more will
be in place -Matt and the team will only improve-the future is brighter than ever
GINA
December 21st, 2009
6:31 pm
Now the Falcons are gonna sacrifice Michael Turner….LOL…just wow.
Wayne
December 21st, 2009
8:09 pm
One decent game and someone writes Grimes Redeems himself. How many times throughout the season this scrub has got beat and missed tackles.
turf toe
December 21st, 2009
8:13 pm
…..gotta get to 9-7
and break the 42 year jinx.
DrJ
December 21st, 2009
8:33 pm
Matt Ryan has convinced me that he can really get it all going in the last minutes of a game, like last year. He doesn’t have to pass 50 yds, consistently hitting the shorter ones will win just as well. Some guys just have the knack, like Joe Montana always ran the table in the last seconds.
Turner shouldn’t be on the field, or else he will do the 2-plays -and -out thing again. I don’t think his ankle was targeted, but it ended up that way. For a number of games before the injury, the DBs were hitting him around the ankles as they could not bring him down hitting his thighs, it’s just that he hasn’t healed. I know he wants his 1000 yd mark, but it will be better for his longevity. Also, Smitty wants to keep it up in the air as to whether he will play so the other team will have to spend some of their time preparing for Turner.
For all the defensive records the Jets have, they apparently have a 5′ 8″ DB. Things are really looking up for Grimes! He really did have a great game, as did the entire D.
Uniform Change Please
December 21st, 2009
8:33 pm
Please change the uniforms. The throw backs we wore this year are amazing. I am tired of looking we are in the arena league.
Falcon 8211
December 21st, 2009
8:40 pm
glad to see the falcons play with heart. glad for grimes but let us not forget that sanchez has been throwing picks the last few weeks. but still better pass def. than usual. glad to see abe is back from vacation. go falcons
Falcon State of Mind
December 21st, 2009
9:02 pm
Had to change my name to make sure I didn’t get banned by accident, lol. Seriously though, great win by the Falcons. Matt Ryan showed up when he needed to, and that’s the difference between him and most of the younger qb’s in the league. Matt’s a winner, and he will catch up to the NFL just give him time.
rfgh
December 21st, 2009
9:21 pm
Thank you so much, Orlando, for geting rid of the “haters”. This blog is for Falcons “fans”. Merry Xmas, buddy.
Atlanta Peach
December 21st, 2009
10:06 pm
Thank you Orlando ! You are the only one decent one to band that Race baiter “Matt the Choke Ryan” ! If anything I wished that the Falcons could have brought back #4 Brett Farve before drafting Matt Ryan. What racial things Choke would have seen in Brett Farve ?! Believe me, anyone other than Michael Vick he would have something hateful to say !! So, thank you Orlando ! And Choke if you are here reading, I have one thing to say to you. “Howd you Doin”?!!!
tyger
December 21st, 2009
10:22 pm
Dont know what choke did to get banned, but I do know they don’t teach censorship on The Hill – the 4th estate necessarily encompasses dissenting opinions. Where you from? The Quad?
Atlanta Peach
December 21st, 2009
10:29 pm
Who are you refering too ?!
BIGBEN42
December 21st, 2009
10:32 pm
Falcon had some growing pains this year. Alot of injuries.Should be alot better in 2010. Fill in’s got much needed experience.GO FALCONS
Falcon66
December 21st, 2009
10:33 pm
Thanks D-Led for trying to get the board back to discussing our team. To those that question Ryan’s passer rating against the Jets, check out Ben R.’s stats in the super bowl win against Seattle a few years back. The idea is to win the win game which he seems to be doing pretty well so far.
Also, how much does our secondary’s performance have to do with a terribly ineffecive pass-rush in most of the games this year.? We have had several games when it seemed that the other qb didn’t get touched. Overall these guys in the secondary seem to beginning to play pretty decently.
D-Led, how did you see the play Revis made that drew a penalty on White in comparison to Grimes’ play against the Saints? What’s the difference? Thanks.
ashman
December 21st, 2009
10:39 pm
I was very proud of the falcons effort yesterday and the whole season really-these guys don’t mind battling even in less than ideal conditions like jets game with frigid temps and no possible playoffs!
RUDEDOGG
December 21st, 2009
11:35 pm
Hope we dont think this a credible win against a team with a “If average” rookie QB. I’m tired of the Falcons allowing the league to send there half @ssin players,coaches,GM’s to this city and treat it like as a doormat.
Rocky Mountian Falcon
December 21st, 2009
11:37 pm
Not sure how much better we will be next year, we play Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Cinci, S.F. Arizona, Seattle, STL, Cleveland a NFC North team, and a NFC East team. (if we finish 2nd in our division that means we will play at Dallas and Green Bay at home, and of course the NFC South twice. Next years schedule will not be a walk in the park, but we should have our share of wins. 10-6 I think at this point.
Of course we need to finish this year and get past the draft first before we start worrying about next seasons schedule…but I had to check it out.
Rocky Mountian Falcon
December 21st, 2009
11:40 pm
For you kiddies keeping score at home, that means next season we will have 8 games against 2009 play-off teams.
GINA
December 22nd, 2009
5:40 am
Rocky Mountian Falcon
December 21st, 2009
11:40 pm
For you kiddies keeping score at home, that means next season we will have 8 games against 2009 play-off teams.
***************
OH NOEZ The schedulers hate us!!! Why do we have such a tough schedule! There is a conspiracy!!! Its not fair!!! We should only have to play the Rams, Chiefs and Lions so we can have a playoff team! This is totally unfair! We should protest! How dare the Falcons have to play 8 games against 09 playoff teams! This is an outrage! Its just not right!
No justice! No peace!
harleyman
December 22nd, 2009
7:36 am
Good job D-Led making your blog about Falcons football again. Thanks. As far as Grimes is concerned, I only look for him to be used in nickel package next year if he remains with team. Falcons need a big corner desperately next year. While Sundays game was not pretty, a W is a W and we’ll take it. Got to play for that winning season. To think a couple of kicks and an overtime game would have made a huge difference this year while considering the not so good defensive play, schedule, and injuries incurred, 9-7 would be awesome. I like the Falcons as a team going into next year.
Rod
December 22nd, 2009
7:39 am
So, Orlando – you said you’re banning a bunch of folks who want to talk non-stop about that former QB. Be sure to include Jeff Schultz in that! Every week he has a column about the guy!
WW
December 22nd, 2009
9:27 am
Smurfs undecided.
We unquestionably have the best Smurf attack in the NFL. They are great “B” players and should make the team next year; however, we need an elite CB in the first round of the draft next year.
Additionally, I strongly recommend picking up a field goal kicker in the 4th round of the draft. Not having an elite kicker lost us two games this year.
Tommy
December 22nd, 2009
9:45 am
If we can hang onto the backups who played more this season because of injuries, a lot of our depth problems will go away. Brent Grimes is often overmatched as a starting CB, but he is shaping up to be an excellent nickel or dime back as well as a special teams contributor. He’s developing into that ‘good-but-not-great-110%-effort-guy’ that contenders always seem to have around.
The same can be said of players like DeCoud. If we can talk them into sticking around with a reduced role, that deepens the roster tremendously.
Remember when the Patriots missed the playoffs in 2002, in between their first two titles? That seems to be the type of year we are having. A short-term retrenchment setting up a long-term gain.
JimmyO
December 22nd, 2009
9:57 am
DOL, count me in on thanking you for banning “Choke” and other haters out there. This comes from a life long Eagles fan who has lived in Atlanta for 20 yrs. I have season tix to the Falcons and the only time I’m not rooting for them is when they play Phila. You have to root for where you were born and raised. I will ONLY read your blog from now on since the other guys seem to let the haters go on and on. ( I think just so they can show hits on thier articles.) I’m going back to Phila. today to be with family for Christmas. To everyone have a HAPPY and SAFE HOLIDAYS ! Peace
JimmyO
December 22nd, 2009
10:07 am
Enter your comments here
BIGBEN42
December 22nd, 2009
10:22 am
This year we did’nt benefit from our Number 1 and Number 2 pick due to injury.Next year we should benefit from having 2 NUMBER 1 AND 2 Number 2’s.Injuries are part of the game.Hopefully in 2010 we can avoid so many injuries. With a good draft we will be in the mix in 2010. Go FALCONS. HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Manny
December 22nd, 2009
10:38 am
Not liking Matt Ryan and liking Michael Vick doesn’t make you a race baiter. Liking Matt Ryan and not liking Michael Vick doesn’t make you a race baiter. And hatred goes both ways, so relax. Michael Vick is doing well… on another team. And there will always be that “Vick vs. Ryan” talk until Matt Ryan wins something other than a regular season game.
Now as far as the Falcons are concerned, Brent Grimes had a good game, but I always thought that Grimes was pretty good and getting better. The problem is that he can get burnt, but he’s still young. To me, his best games are those games where he doesn’t get any recognition at all. Those interceptions were 50% Sanchez making terrible plays and 50% Grimes making great plays. But for me, Grimes is best when Grimes isn’t being talked about at all. In other words, when he is shutting down his receivers.
The secondary as a whole did a great job. They allowed the rush (which still have glaring problems) to get some pressure. I would personally like to see the rush make the secondary look good, instead of the other way around, though. The pass rush is still disappointing, to me.
Now, for the offense. I am not impressed. Part of that is due to the defensive efforts of the Jets. But parts of that is because of the rusty play of Matt Ryan. As I’ve said in other blogs, Ryan keyed on only two players in the passing offense: Roddy White and Gonzalez. There were other passes to other players, but that was only when he had the time to slowly go through his progressions. I would like to see Ryan go through his progressions faster and look off defenders better.
That last play- where he passed to an open Gonzalez in the end zone? Everyone, including my two young sons knew that Matt Ryan was going to pass to Gonzalez. And if he couldn’t get that pass off, he was going to trying to run it in. We all knew it, but it looked like some miracle that the Jets offense let Tony to just sit in the end zone and get that pass off. Tony got wide in the zone which allowed that pass to come in.
That was a mistake. They should have dropped the off linebacker into coverage as soon as they saw the Falcons TE come off the line. But that linebacker pressed in, ignoring Tony. That was why he was so wide open.
But here’s what I liked about the scheme, though. They allowed Ryan to utilize Norwood in short crossing routes. That was nice and Ryan was hitting him in stride. Plus, Ryan played conservative ball. That was great. He made some mistakes; one should have been a Pick6, but he managed the game well. That being said, I would like to see him spread the ball around better. Justin Peele was open a lot and wasn’t hit. Norwood was open and wasn’t hit. That’s a problem.
So here’s my bottom line: Ryan needs to play better in order for this team to be better on offense. On defense, we need a better pass rush, but more importantly, we need better personnel with out rush defense in order to have a better defense. If we can stop the run, our pass rush will automatically get better because it will force our opponents into 3rd-and long opportunities. You get more sacks that way.
That’s my take.
rah
December 22nd, 2009
10:47 am
If we win the last two games, we will have finished one easy field goal missed (Giants game) out of the playoffs with the second toughest schedule in the NFL. That’s not really a falling off, and I hope this will spring us into a great season next year.
LP
December 22nd, 2009
11:29 am
I like Grimes game over Houston’s anyday. I think Houston should’ve been the CB benched for the Falcons not Grimes. As far as J. Anderson goes, we should keep him add about 30lbs and move him to NT. He’s 6′6 290lbs and all he does is make takles. He’s still young 24 and he knows the defensive system. Another important factor is that for his career he’s a relatively healthy player, consistancy is key to building chemistry both offensively and defensively.
Jeff
December 22nd, 2009
11:59 am
Grimes didn’t redeem himself. He showed that Sanchez is the worst QB in the NFL this year. Grimes is not all of a sudden a CB. He was the benificiary of playing against a QB throwing a whopping 20 INT’s in 14 games with a graceful QB rating of 62.3. Give it a rest he shouldn’t be on any NFL roster and hopefully we can find some real corners next year.
Once "Recent" Reader
December 22nd, 2009
12:54 pm
For those that think Choke was banned just because he wrote incessantly about Vick . . … .you obviously weren’t paying much attention to the other posts he liberally sprinkled in with some pretty useless and raunchy comments. I didn’t mid the non-stop Anti-Ryan Babble nor the in geneal Falcons and Falcons Fans trashing . . . .but the other garbage got old. It was like dealing with someone who had ADD and Torrette’s Syndrome combined.
Barry
December 22nd, 2009
2:35 pm
Enter your comments here
Barry
December 22nd, 2009
2:48 pm
Hey Y’all:
“Just win, Baby.” “You play to win the game.” “Just win, baby!” That’s right. Our Falcons are winning. We are a winning team. If not for the injuries and the horrorific scheduling with our Falcons playiong 5 consecutive teams coming off “BYE WEEKS”, I more than believe that our FALCONS would be in the playoffs. If Dallas had lost to the Saints, our Falcons would be “SHOCKING THE WORLD” right now and marching to the playoffs. But those are the breaks. However, we are now playing for “BACK TO BACK” winning seasons. What our FALCONS have exhibiited this seasoon is HEART, PRIDE, RESILIENCY, NASTINESS, EXCITEMENT, AND THE WILL TO WIN. The “PROCESS” continues. It continues in “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!”.. we will run the table these next 2 games and will end with a winning season. We will do it in “ONE HEARTBEAT!!”. This is our goa. It will be done. LETS GO FALCONS. Let’s kick this butt in ‘ONE HEARTBEAT!!”
GO FALCONS!!!!!!! LET’s KICK BUTT!!! “JUST WIN, BABY!!”
SSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is a SECRET from a FALCON FAN. TELL EVERYBODY!!!!!!!
………………..”ONE HEARTBEAT, BABY!!!………
MV#777
December 22nd, 2009
3:24 pm
SORRY!!!!!!!!!!
YOUR JUST PLAYING TO BE PLAYING..LOL…
MAYBE IN 10YRS THIS TEAM WILL BE READY FOR THE PLAYOFFFFSSSSSSSSS…LOL
P.S. AND I KNOW! YOU MISS MR.MICHAEL VICK!!!!!!!!!HAVE FUN IN THE PLAYOFFS MICHAEL VICK!! I HOPE THE EAGLES MAKE IT TO THE BIG GAME..:)
truth
December 22nd, 2009
4:56 pm
MV#777………….go to bed you silly little boy.
MV#777
December 22nd, 2009
6:46 pm
E
A
G
L
E
S
M
I
C
H
A
E
L
V
I
C
K
2
0
0
9
C
H
A
M
P
S
LOL……
cdog
December 22nd, 2009
7:01 pm
I WONDER DOES ANYONE ACTUALLY BELIEVE THE DALLAS COWBOYS LEGITILLY BEAT THE NEW ORLEANS SAINTS LAST WEEK? IT WAS JUST LIKE PRO WRESTLING,OUTCOME WAS ALREADY DECIDED BY THE LEAGUE.BREES COULDN’T DEGUISE THE FACT HE WAS DELIBERATELY UNDERTHROWING RECIEVERS,LINEMAN FOR NEW ORLEANS WAS LITERALLY LETTING DALLAS DEFENSIVE LINEMAN THROUGH. I HAD ALREADY CALLED WHAT WAS GOING TO HAPPEN.THOUGH IT HAPPENED, IT WAS BEST THE FALCONS NOT GO TO THE PLAYOFFS WITH A HIGH SCHOOL MAYBE TALENTED SECONDARY, THEY WOULD HAVE BEEN A JOKE IN A PLAYOFF GAME.MATT RYAN QUIT AFTER THE TAMPA GAME, PLAYOFFS? FALCONS? BE FOR REAL.
planb
December 22nd, 2009
9:11 pm
MV#777
Let’s talk about the great MV. Starting in 2002 – 9-6-1; 2003 – Out; 2004 – 11-5; 2005 – 8-8; 2006 – 7-9. That’s 35-28-1 according to my calculations. That is a .555 winning percentage. How could we get rid of a man with this kind of record just because he killed a few dogs.
planb
December 22nd, 2009
9:17 pm
MV#777
Lets talk about the great MV during his years with the Falcons. Starting 2002 – 9-6-1; 2003 – out; 2004 – 11-5; 2005 – 8-8; 2006 – 7-9. That’s 35-28-1 or a staggering .555%. How could we get rid of a man with this kind of record even if he did kill a few dogs.
bobwhite
December 22nd, 2009
11:57 pm
Good “Tough” Win! Kudo’s To The Birds..Now, Lets Buckle It Up For The Bills!!
Falcon’s Are Still 6-8 “PLAYERS” Away From Being A “Real” Contender..
I “See” Michael Jenkins, John Abraham & Several Others Being Released Or Traded Before
The 2010 Campaign Begins..If M.Smith Has The “Guts” He Will Also Get NEW Offensive-
Defensive Coach’s!
Tommy
December 22nd, 2009
11:58 pm
The Eagles or Cowboys are winning the NFC. The Vikings and Saints peaked too early. If Brees has a bad game, the Saints lose. As for the Vikes, I don’t think they could beat the Packers at this point.
It’s not what your top level is, it’s when you do it.
Tommy
December 23rd, 2009
12:00 am
And I have a feeling you’ll see me on the 2010 Falcons before you see John Abraham or Michael Jenkins. . .
Birddawg
December 23rd, 2009
12:22 am
What? No Matt “Choke” Ryan on this blog? That guy is hilarious.
MV#777
December 29th, 2009
7:15 pm
IT FIRST BECAME obvious, this feeling between Michael Vick and his new teammates, a couple of weeks ago in Atlanta. It was his homecoming game, as it were. It was where he scored his first touchdown for the Eagles and his teammates bounded off of the bench in celebration, where cornerback Sheldon Brown said that he and some of the players were telling each other before the game that they wanted to win it for Vick.
I mean, win one for Mike? Really? We all observe from a distance, and it was so hard to see or to understand. But it was real. There is no doubt that it was real, this bond between Vick and his new teammates.
And, now, this:
The Eagles’ players have unanimously voted Vick as the team’s recipient of the Ed Block Courage Award, given annually to the player on each NFL team who exemplifies “commitment to the principles of sportsmanship and courage.”
Guilty of horrific crimes. Sentenced to a federal prison term. Forfeited millions and millions of dollars. Back in the league for only a few months, only through the good graces of NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and Eagles coach Andy Reid. Now, a convicted felon honored by his teammates for overcoming a terrible situation into which he had put himself.
“I’m not sure you can explain it unless you’ve gone through it here with him,” Reid said yesterday. “Everybody is going to have their opinion on it, I’m sure. Until you’ve been with him for the hours that his teammates have been with him and seen him through all these different things that he’s had to go through, that time-tested part of it, you can’t appreciate it quite as much.
“I don’t expect everybody to understand it, no, but I think it’s a tribute when it’s a slam dunk by his teammates voting him that. It was just a unanimous vote there.”
That this is just a gut punch to the people who have opposed Vick’s reinstatement goes without saying. For them, a PETA spokesman said:
“The Philadelphia Eagles fumbled when they gave Michael Vick the Ed Block Courage Award, which was named after a man who advocated in behalf of abused children. Michael Vick should not be the person anyone points to as a model of sportsmanship, even though he has now exchanged dogs for touchdowns after serving time for extreme cruelty to animals. We wish him well in educating others, but this is not appropriate and does not mark a joyous moment in NFL history.”
It is hard to disagree with any of that. It does seem too soon to be celebrating Vick. It does not feel right – and this comes from somebody who thought Vick deserved a chance to play this year, somebody who was looking forward to seeing what he could do on the field.
But here is the thing: I did not get a vote and you did not get a vote. This is a players’ award, voted upon by players. And whatever your personal feelings, it is impossible not to be fascinated by this team’s embrace of Vick, right from the start.
“I never worried that guys wouldn’t accept me,” Vick said. “That probably was one of the last things on my mind. The most important thing was to get in here and get to know the guys and get acclimated in the city and playing football again. You just let things happen naturally. You just be yourself.”
This is more than just teammates supporting a teammate. It is clear that they like the guy. Talking to them through the season, it is clear that they thought the punishment for the crime was so severe, prison-wise and especially financially, only because Vick was a celebrity. Their inclination as fellow celebrities was to root for him, and as fellow teammates to root for his ability to help them on the field. But the feelings still ended up going deeper, and this award demonstrates it.
“It means a great deal,” Vick said. “I’ve only been in this locker room for 3 1/2 months. For those guys to feel that way about me, it means a lot to me. The bond that I have with the players on this team and the way we’ve jelled has been outstanding.”
Someone asked Vick what kind of courage he demonstrated, per the award.
“I’ve had to overcome a lot, more than probably one single individual can bear,” he said. “Take a look at what I’ve been through. You ask certain people to walk in my shoes, they probably couldn’t do it – probably 95 percent of the people in this world. Because nobody had to endure what I’ve been through, situations I’ve been put in, situations I’ve placed myself in, decisions that I’ve made, whether they were good or bad. There are always consequences behind certain things and there are repercussions behind them, too. Then you have to wake up every day and face the world, whether they perceive you in the right perspective or it’s a totally different outlook on you.
“You just have to be strong and believe in yourself and be optimistic. That’s what I’ve been able to do and that’s what I display.”
When you talk to Vick, it sometimes takes him a minute to get to the key point: situations I’ve placed myself in. That is what rankles for some, still, that minute it sometimes takes. But it is all part of a longer process.
Anyway, Vick said, “The thing I told Roger [Goodell] was that, 4 or 5 years from now, when I come to him, I’ll be able to say everything I told you I was going to do, I’m still doing it. That’s what I pride myself on. That’s my focus and that’s my goal.”
That might have seemed a more appropriate time for an award such as this one, not now. Then again, this is all about a bond within a locker room, a place that none of us can hope to understand from the outside
MV#777
January 2nd, 2010
2:58 pm
WHAT GOES AROUND….
COMES AROUND……
LOL………..
southernbird7
January 11th, 2010
7:07 pm
Has anyone else notice, it may just be me, but all the top or winning teams carry 3 RB , differnt styles though, hard to conquer. we got turner, snelling , now we need that sprint back with power. CB Haden would be perfect, but abraham needs help from the other side and we need that terror in the middle(GRADY) that require 2 ol to hold out.A true 6′5″ or taller tough WR who can fly, along with roddy ,douglas will become the leagues triple threat. oh yeah put Baker back to 2nd string backup and get a smart end who can move there feet. please learn to play the play and stop giving up the 10 yards so easily, speed ,speed ,speed the falcons need more speed alon with smart playing. if you dont keep Redman then bring back Schockley for his legs.
dub366
January 13th, 2010
10:27 pm
Barry, when you make it to the playoffs, you have to go through the best to get to the top, & the FALCONS weren’t ready to make that step. On Monday, you read to keep the coaches together & then on Wednesday, you let Emmett go, like he was the reason the secondary played like they did. He didn’t draft those little corners.
dub366
January 13th, 2010
10:29 pm
what r u going to do about the coach on the d-line.